West Peabody - Peabody, MA

Initially a part of the city of Salem until 1752, Peabody was an incorporated section of Danvers until 1916, when it became its own incorporated city brandishing its current name after George Peabody, a noteworthy philanthropist of the time.

Predominantly farmland until the mid-1950s, West Peabody was developed into a residential community and has thrived as such ever since.

Notable museums in the area include the Peabody Historical Society and Museum, various historic properties connected to the Historical Society around the city and the George Peabody Museum: the former home of George Peabody.

Annual events include a "Holiday Open House and Art in the Barn" every December at the Felton-Smith Historic Site, which showcases local art from the Peabody Art Association, museum tours and Christmas caroling.

Being strictly a small residential neighborhood, West Peabody inhabitants need to drive outside their locale to the main city of Peabody to grab a bite to eat or spend a night out on the town, which isn't a big deal. West Peabody is just a stone's throw away from the main city that they are very much a part of.

Peabody is home to an eclectic array of delightful cuisines to please any taste. Influenced by both the sophisticated palate of nearby Boston and traditional hearty New England fare, this city traverses both spectrums of the culinary world, so your appetite will be satisfied.

Peabody's most popular market and cafe, Karl's Sausage Kitchen & European Market, is a unique experience that transcends the ordinary dining experience. In business since 1958, Karl's has been giving Peabody an unforgettable taste of its handmade sausages, imported deli meats and cheeses and European groceries for generations. The cafe menu showcases traditional German dishes such as succulent Sauerbraten and Wienerschnitzel or more uncommon platters, including Hungarian Goulash: thick cut beef stewed in delectable juices, seasoned with paprika and served over a bed of buttery egg noodles. Karl's offers a children's menu for less-adventurous tots. Locals show up early, knowing lunch time fills up fast.

If you want good old-fashioned American grub, look no further than The Little Depot Diner. A local favorite featured on Food Network's "Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives," this diner is equal parts adorable and delectable. Housed in a tiny yellow former train depot, The Little Depot attracts diners seeking a trip back in time when the town diner was the hub of local activity, but the food was made with tremendous care. Diners rave about the breakfasts — with oversized blueberry pancakes being a favorite. If you're really hungry, order the "All Aboard," featuring two eggs any style, two thick slabs of bacon, two savory strips of sausage, a plate-size pancake and your choice of home fries or beans. Before you rush on over, don't forget to bring cash because the Little Depot Diner is cash only.

Peabody's nightlife happens to be just as spirited as the dining experience. The city is glittered with several lounges and pubs, so whether you're looking for a cheap beer or to splurge on a sophisticated cocktail, you'll find something that meets your needs.

If you're leaning towards a casual fun vibe for a night out with friends, check out Paddy Kelly's, an Irish-style restaurant and bar that is a local staple in the city of Peabody. With a friendly atmosphere that erupts with fun events like beer pong tournaments, karaoke, live DJs and trivia nights, Paddy Kelly's is that corner neighborhood bar you can always rely on for a good time. Paddy's features weekly drink and food specials, including deals on Rolling Rocks, half-priced appetizers on Tuesdays, and cheap wings Wednesdays. Bar goers say it can get rowdy after ten on the weekends.

If you're in the mood to throw on that little black dress and dance, plan for a night out at Capone's Restaurant and Lounge, an art-deco style club that features live bands with a variety of musical styles every Thursday through Saturday night. Adorned with photos of the roaring twenties on its black and white walls, Capone's will surely bring out that flapper in you as you sip on one of their refreshing cocktails. Capone's has a full Italian-style menu, with classics such as shrimp scampi and fried calamari. If you come on Friday or Saturday night, prepare to pay a cover charge for the live entertainment.

Getting around West Peabody, as well as the main city of Peabody, is never a problem. The city offers public transportation options such as the public bus system, the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA), private taxi cab services, Uber and other car services that are only a phone call away.

Public parking is easily accessible, free and available throughout the city. Being so close to major cities like Salem and Boston, access to I-95 and other busy highways is quick and convenient.

The neighborhood of West Peabody is easily walkable and encourages biking and quiet recreation; however, if you are traveling throughout the main city, it's recommended you take a car to get around.

It wouldn't be New England if West Peabody didn't have a scenic side. The main city of Peabody's most popular outdoor attraction is their frequented bike trail called Independence Greenway Bike Route, containing 8 miles of scenic trails in three separate segments. Offering abandoned railroad routes and wetlands with the accompaniment of wildlife and lovely views, this destination is popular for families and individuals alike any time of year. Parking is free and easily accessible, but leave your pets at home.

Other parks in the area include Lt. Ross Park which features a baseball field that hosts Little League games throughout the season. The playground is another lure for the young ones, so bring a book, relax and let your children have some fun.

The cost of living in West Peabody, and the city of Peabody as a whole, is 5.2 percent higher than the Massachusetts average and 38.9 percent higher than the national average.

The median rent for a one-bedroom apartment in West Peabody rates at about $1,500 per month. Looking at these demographics, you can see that living in West Peabody isn't the cheapest option, but it's convenient proximity to Boston and other major cities can make the expense worth it.

The typical pint of beer at a local pub costs around $5.00, and gas is surprisingly cheaper here too. The average price per gallon being 7 percent less per gallon than the national average.

The city of Peabody has quite a few diverse shopping options in its vicinitywith the major hot spot being the Northshore Mall. From high-end stores such as Nordstrom, to unique thrift stores like Ginger's Closet, Peabody offers something for every budget and taste.

Some popular specialty stores include Fit Werx on Falcon Street in Peabody, which specializes in road and racing bikes for both beginners and professional bicyclists. The business is known for its outstanding customer service and expertise. Northeast Nursery is a gardener's utopia, selling a variety of lush plants and flowers and seeds for the more experienced green thumbs.

There are several grocery stores serving the neighborhood of West Peabody that are useful for a quick stop for milk and eggs or organic chicken. Common supermarkets such as Stop & Shop are accessible, but if you're in the mood for something a little more natural, Trader Joe's is just a short drive away.